2013 Citizen Of The Year Announced

Citizens Will Be Honored At February 8 Banquet

January 31, 2013

Emmetsburg's 2013 Citizen of the Year will be honored at the Annual Chamber of Commerce Banquet.

LouAnn Huberty will receive the Charles Hughes Citizen of the Year Award.

"As we did last year, we are announcing the recipient of this prestigious award in advance of the banquet," said Deb Hite, Executive Director of Emmetsburg Chamber of Commerce. "By making the announcement early, this provides an opportunity for family and friends to make reservations to attend the banquet."

LouAnn Huberty was nominated for Citizen of the Year by Donna Kunz, the 2012 recipient of the award.

In her letter of nomination, Donna said a person to be recognized is one who will say "yes," an active member of organizations and a person who can yoke organizations together for a win/win event.

"LouAnn does all of these without needing attention or financial gains," she wrote.

The letter of nomination spelled out the numerous community organizations of which LouAnn is an active member, including Emmetsburg Main Street Community Theatre, St. Pat's Association, member of Friend of the Library, Last Page Book Club, Palo Alto Hospital ?Auxiliary, Emmetsburg Historical Society and Ladies VFW Auxiliary. She is chairperson for Palo Alto Arts Council and UNIFUND and organizer, charter member and Queen Mum of Scarlet O'Hatter Chapter of the Red Hat Society. She is Emmetsburg's?Welcome Wagon Lady.

"LouAnn lives in a town which allows everyone to participate in whatever is of interest to them and small enough to know your neighbors," Donna said.

LouAnn Huberty offered her thanks. "First I would like to say thank you to Donna for taking the time to write her letter of recommendation - it almost sounds like she could be a teacher. Thank you also to the Chamber, the board and Deb for all you do for Emmetsburg. This is a real honor."

In addition to the Citizen of the Year Award, Emmetsburg Chamber of Commerce will recognize Chamber members with the Catalyst Award. New this year, 5 Under 40 will recognize five young professionals under age 40 who are making a difference in the community.

To make reservations for the Feb. 8 Chamber Banquet, contact the Chamber Office at 712-852-2283. Today is the deadline to make reservations.